Majorcan Pointer
The Majorcan Pointer is little known outside of their native Majorca. A pointer-type dog, they are used by local sportsmen when hunting game. Considered a rare breed, they were at one time thought to be extinct until small pockets of them were found on Majorca.
An intelligent dog, they are thoughtful and sure-footed, and like to look to their master for guidance.
About & History
The Majorcan Pointer is an off-shoot of other pointers originating from the Navarre region of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula. Dogs of a similar type but with slight differences are widespread through the area, each subtly adapted to life in that specific niche.
Whilst the exact origins of these older Pointer breeds are not known, their origins go back centuries. Indeed, go back far enough and in centuries gone-by they may share a common forebear in the now extinct Talbot Hound.
Appearance
The Majorcan Pointer is unmistakably a pointer, although perhaps a little taller and longer in the leg than other typical pointers. He’s a particularly handsome chap, not just because he is well proportioned, but because of the gentle look in his eye. Those attentive eyes are framed by triangular drop ears, which are soft and velvety to the touch.
The Majorcan Pointer has a medium to long muzzle and a deep chest. These are suited to his needs as a working dog, used for tracking and pursuing quarry. He’s a long-legged, lean and athletic chap, with a neatly tucked up waist.
Then, of course, there’s his tail. Straight and whip-like, when he’s located his quarry he holds it long and flat to signal his master. The Majorcan Pointer is a short coated dog. He comes in a range of colours, including parti-coloured white with liver or tan markings or as a solid caramel coat colour.
Character & Temperament
The Majorcan Pointer was bred as a hunting dog. He excels at finding and flushing out quarry, and then using a gentle mouth bringing the prize back to his owner. He’s a watcher and an observer who notices what’s going on around him, taking cues from his master.
When out hunting, the Majorcan Pointer keeps an eye on his master for guidance. Unlike terriers or other hunting dogs, he doesn’t stray far away. Instead, he prefers to work as a unit with his master, and stays close by. His gentle mouth and enthusiasm for team work mean he can make a great dog for the active family.
Trainability
The Majorcan Pointer likes to be part of a team. He therefore responds exceptionally well to reward-based training methods. Patient handling will be hugely rewarded by a dog that likes to please. Indeed, a well-trained Majorcan Pointer seems to be an extension of the owner, responding to their every instruction or move.
Health
There is little information about the health problems to which this breed is predisposed. It’s a fair assumption that they share a similarity with other closely related breeds, such as the Pachón Navarro, but this is not proven. The problems to keep in mind which may be problematic include:
Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
The deep, narrow chest of the Majorcan Pointer make them the perfect candidate for bloat. This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach flips over on itself. This seals off the entrance and exit to the stomach causing gas to build up inside.
It is the distended stomach that gives the GDV its other name of bloat. Sadly, this is a serious problem and prompt surgical correction is needed to reposition the stomach. Without surgery, GDV is fatal. However, an owner can take steps to reduce the risks. This involves feeding a good quality diet that does not ferment in the stomach, along with avoiding exercise for at least 90-minutes after eating.
Hypothyroidism or Under-Active Thyroid Glands
The thyroid glands produce thyroid hormone that governs how quickly the metabolism runs. A lack of thyroid hormone leads to a sluggish metabolism and a tendency to weight gain and lethargy.
However, when the problem is recognised, a simple daily supplement containing thyroid hormone helps to get the dog back on track.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a condition where the dog has fits or seizures but no underlying cause can be found. It is a genetic condition, which can be passed down from parent to puppy. Epilepsy can manifest itself in relatively young dogs. Whilst there is no cure, effective drugs are available to control the symptoms.
Exercise and Activity Levels
The Majorcan Pointer needs plenty of space to roam and is not suited to a coach potato lifestyle. He loves to be active and does best when he has a task to do as a team with his owner. Thus, he makes for a great agility dog or will excel in other sports where man and dog work together.
The Majorcan Pointer is more of a slow and steady endurance dog than a sprinter. When given the option, he likes to trot along rather than gallop. However, he does need to be active but would enjoy a hike over a race.
Grooming
The Majorcan Pointer has a short, easy-care coat and doesn’t need trips to the grooming parlour. Like all dogs, he benefits from a regular brushing to keep his skin and coat in tip-top condition. He’s a moderate shedder, but again regular brushing helps with this as it collects the hairs on the brush rather than the sofa.
Famous Majorcan Pointers
The Majorcan Pointer is evidently a shy chap who has yet to be celebrated on social media.
Cross-Breeds
The Majorcan Pointer is one of several breeds that are closely related and yet separate in their own right. As a rare breed, this pointer is not deliberately used for breeding hybrids. All efforts are focussed on stabilising the numbers of the purebred dog, rather than creating new breeds.